Committee directs oversight role to city manager for sensitive police data, city manager confirms CJIS access

The committee discussed who should have access to unredacted criminal‑justice information and how the council can exercise oversight. The committee chair said the central question is whether council members or the committee legally may view unredacted CJIS material and, if not, who should be the 'eyes' of the council. "I believe we are still sitting today where, whether it's this committee or council members actually, we really don't have the legal right to see real data," the chair said, urging a clear path for outside oversight.

The city attorney recommended placing that oversight in the office of the city manager because investigative material typically falls under active criminal‑investigation protections under state law and city ordinance. The city manager confirmed he has undergone CJIS training and has authorized access. "I do have access to CJIS," the city manager said, adding that he will ensure the chief and deputies keep him informed so he can report back to the committee. The chair said regular updates from the city manager about what the chief shares should continue as system use grows.